Travel and leisure
Destinations
A break in Bruges
The heart of Bruges is the best preserved example of medieval Flanders, surrounded by an almost continuous ring of canals. The city centre is so picture-postcard perfect (known as the Venice of the North) that it is almost impossible to take a bad photo
For such a small city, Bruges has an impressive collection of art. In addition to the Groeningemuseum, with its collection of Flemish primitives, there is the Memling Museum, dedicated to the 15th century Frankfurt-born artist who studied in the city, and the Gruuthusemuseum. Housed in the 15th-century palace of the Lords of Gruuthuse, this gallery also has a wonderful collection of applied arts, musical instruments and weapons.
In a city where so many buildings from medieval Flanders still survive, Bruges has plenty of interesting architecture to admire. Start at the Markt, with its gabled buildings and Belfry, then wander south to the Beguinage before wending your way back to walk along Dijver, through the Vismarkt to the Burg.
This is historically the most important square in Bruges, where it is possible to see 700 years of architecture. From the Romanesque and neo-Gothic Basilica of the Holy Blood and the Gothic City Hall to Old Recorders' House (constructed during the Renaissance), the splendidly Baroque Provost's House and the Old Country House of 'Brugse Vrije' – a masterpiece of Classic architecture – there are many fine period buildings to discover.
Of course it would be hard to visit Bruges and not drop into some of its countless speciality chocolatiers. The chocolate comes in a variety of shapes and sizes but now also in flavours. Chocolate Line, on Katelijnestraat, produces some innovative concoctions, with ingredients such as chilli peppers, peas, cauliflower...and even cheese. There is a museum devoted to the subject: Choco-story tells of the history, cultivation and preparation of the confectionery. Housed in a wine tavern dating back to 1480, it tells you all you need to know about chocolate, including the great news that despite its sugar content, it's actually good for you!
If you haven't got a sweet tooth, perhaps head for a traditional tavern instead, where you can sample some of Belgium's many beers. There are more than 400 to try, including white beer and raspberry beer. Most are served in their own special glass and, curiously, among the most popular are those made by Trappist monks.
You can travel to Bruges with Great Getaways - visit www.saga.co.uk/greatgetaways
